Welcome to Gaia! ::

Crystalania shifted nervously on her hooves as she looked out over the misty morning meadow. Her eyes fixed on the break in the distant trees where a well traveled path cut through forest and lead to the opening where she stood in the hedge that marked the boundary of the main hub of her her herd lands, her home. She was waiting on the arrival of a friend of the family that she had not seen since she was a foal. They had spent much time together but it had been so long since then that she barely remembered anything about him. it was just her luck that the politics between her parents herd, now hers, and the one from which he hailed dictated for him to spend some time among each of his allies. And now it was her turn. She blew out a breath as she felt a poke on her shoulder. Her lady's maid, who was much more than she seemed, and best friend Lilla stared at her quizzically.

"It can't go that bad." the purple mare said with a cheerful laugh. "And even if it does at least you can kick him out after a week. That's all the treaty demands anyway."
Crys couldn't help but laugh too. "You're right. As usual. But still . . . I hate politics." She couldn't help but sigh again as she once again found herself wishing her mate was at her side. Alas, he had his own duties to tend to leaving her to tend to her own. At least she had Lilla, who was currently glaring down the path.

"The least he could do was be punctual though." Lilla quipped.
Crys had to laugh again. "We're early Lilla. You saw to that."

Lilla huffed. "Oh I suppose you're right. He better be worth it though."

As Crys saw movement on the horizon she lifted her head and her eyes focused on the figure coming into view. As the sun crested and highlighted his figures perfectly she had to stifle a sigh. Same old Cas a she remembered. She had to admit he painted a pretty picture though. Lilla let out a snort of derision and Crys flicked her tail in warning.

"What?" Lilla asked with a giggle. "He's obviously in love with himself."
"Shhhh" Crys warned her as her eyes tracked his movement ensuring he hadn't heard.

When he presented himself with a bow Crys returned the gesture as formally.
"Welcome Knight-Prince to the lands of HeartHome. I hope your journey was a pleasant one." Her eyes looked at his lack of company with curiosity.

Lilla watched the newcomer with barely hidden amusement as she gave him the very least bow of what protocol dictated for his station, making it as brief as possible without causing offense.

"May I present my companion Lilla. She will be in charge of your comfort for your stay." Crys hadn't told Lilla of the plan and felt the other mare stiffen beside her when she made the announcement. She had to stop herself from laughing. Lilla would hate it but she also wouldn't let the prince's looks or charm fool her into being a complacent pushover when it came to keeping him from toeing the line of hospitality.

"My pleasure Knight-Prince." Lilla said with saccharine sweetness as she bowed again.

Lilla narrowed her eyes at his flattery, her look letting him know she saw right through his act despite his manners. Her demeanor however gave nothing away.
"I assure you that seeing to your comfort while you are here will be my pleasure good Prince." She gave him a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

Crys very subtly swished her tail at Lilla's behavior giving her a non-verbal warning to back off. Cass had just arrived after all and if she started tensions now it was going to be a very long few weeks.
"You are too kind Prince Cassius." The High Lady demurred. "You are too hard on yourself with all this scoundrel talk." She shook her mane out slightly being hyper aware of the morning moisture's effect on her ringlets in the presence of his too-perfect presentation. "May I escort you to my home for some refreshments and rest? I'm sure you could enjoy some time to relax after your travels." She indicated the path through the freshly spring green and baby budding hedges. In a week or two the would be in full bloom and a sight to behold.

"Yes, of course," Lilla interjected. "I've prepared a morning snack and had fresh spring water fetched in anticipation of your arrival." She may not like him but she definitely knew her job.